MTH and Lionel Folks shine at TCA Convention

[MartyE]

I must commend the MTH and Lionel folks for a great TCA convention experience. Mike Wolf, Bill Bracy, Andy Edelman, Todd Wagner, Rich Foster and John Brady were greatly accomidating to my questions and thoughts.

They were great to talk to and the access to them was refreshing.

Thanks to all!

A few hi lights...

MTH

Showed the 1 Gauge Engines. The Clichfield was running on the layout. Makes me want to go out and put in a Garden Layout.
The 3-2 system allowing a 3 rail train to quickly adapt to 2 rail and vice versa. A cool concept. Will be avaialable on steamers this year and diesels to follow.
They are in early stages of having DCS control operating cars anywhere on the layout. Mike Demo'd the helicopter launch car complete with strobes and sound. COOL!
Mike also showed the HO model with DCS installed. I believe he said this will be out when it is perfected. It will run under DCC, DCS or conventional.
Operating Pantagraphs are in development and the tethers are being worked on to go away!

Lionel
Showed us the new 0-6-0 Docksiders. Scale with all the conventional features including sound at $99.
Spoke about the Acella and how they already did some mock ups on the features such as a the pantagraphs and doors.
Talked about the Polar Express. Nothing really new. A set, preproduction it appeared, was at the Lionel booth and it looked pretty good.
Showed us the 18" Superliners as well as new scale passenger cars that we all been asking for. Both with sprung trucks.
For those who purchased the slag and hot metal cars Todd eluded to additions in the way of engines and Lionelville buildings to go with them.
Nothing new on TMCC coming soon. The GS2 was also shown and on rollers at the booth. RS5 is very nice!

I should have some pics by tomorrow. I had to use a disposable as my nephew borrowed my digital. So I'll get a CD made.

Like I said this was from a poor memory but I think I got it mostly right.

Once again I cannot express how good "The Boys" were in listening. Thanks

[Anonymous]

Good report, look forward to the pix. Thanks!

[spankybird]

Thanks Marty - can't wait to see the pics